Ghana
Overview
NetWorks in Ghana (2012-2014) provides technical assistance to the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP), Ghana Health Service (GHS) and Ghana Education Service (GES) to build and expand on the LLIN distribution system. A pilot of the new continuous distribution system began in the Eastern Region, and in 2013 the distribution system rolled out nationwide, to all 10 regions of Ghana.
Newly released! Ghana’s mixed model scores coverage points – a case study on Ghana’s multi-channel continuous distribution. (PDF 1MB)
Ghana’s National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) and partners achieved universal coverage with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) through a nationwide door to door distribution and hang up campaign from 2010 to 2012. In 2013, to maintain universal LLIN coverage, Ghana pioneered a mixed model of LLIN continuous distribution mechanisms using antenatal care, child welfare clinics, schools, shops and workplace programs. Recent results from a pilot in the Eastern Region show that the model is successful in sustaining LLIN ownership and access. Inspired by these achievements and fortified with lessons learned, Ghana has scaled up continuous distribution nationwide.
Continuous Distribution of LLINs
To increase access and availability of LLINs, three distribution channels are being implemented: antenatal care (ANC) clinics, child welfare clinics (CWC) and school-based distribution. Through the enhanced routine system, LLINs will be distributed to pregnant women at first ANC visit, to children when they receive their second measles booster vaccine at child welfare clinics, and in schools to children in second and sixth grades. From October 2012 to September 2013, a total of 1,427,169 LLINs were distributed nationwide using the three distribution channels.
NetWorks has piloted a subsidy program through the private sector supply chain in the Greater Koforidua area in the Eastern Region. A mobile SMS platform provides e-coupons which are redeemed--at an affordable price--through private retailers in the community. Expectations are that this will be implemented throughout Ghana and will motivate the private sector’s investment in malaria control.
BCC and Community Mobilization
At the start, NetWorks coordinated a two-day consensus-building workshop for implementation partners to confirm roles and update the BCC/community mobilization implementation strategy for continuous distribution of LLINs. NetWorks works closely with NMCP, BCS project, GHS, CRS and Ghana Education Service in the coordination and production of community mobilization and behavior change communication materials. NetWorks has collaborated with the Behavior Change Support (BCS) project to develop the second phase of the national LLIN mass media campaign, “Ntumtum po suro,” which addresses the barriers to LLIN use and informs on the correct care and maintenance of nets.
Documentary: A Focus on Ghana’s School-based Distribution of LLINs
This 6:47-minute documentary shows Ghana's school-based distribution of long lasting insecticidal nets. Interviews with implementers from the National Malaria Control Program, School Health Education Program and Ghana Health Service describe the national strategy for continuous distribution and in detail the school-based distribution of LLINs.
Research
A continuous distribution model was piloted in the Eastern Region from 2011-2013. LLINs were distributed through Antenatal Clinics, Child Welfare Clinics under the Expanded Programme for Immunization (EPI) and primary schools. A small-scale E-Voucher pilot was conducted through the private sector from 2013-2014, and had just begun implementation at the time of the endline survey. The endline survey conducted in December 2013, measured the outcome of the continuous distribution pilot.
NetWorks Eastern Region CD Pilot Endline Survey Report 2014 (PDF 1.8MB)
